I have a 97 3500 auto. It makes a ticking sound when it warms up. The sound stops when you put it in gear, and starts again when you start moving. Sound seems to be coming from the bell housing or lower left side of engine. Just had the trans re-built about 3 months ago and it's been making the noise about a month. I'm going to take it back to the trans shop for a check up. Any ideas what the noise might be? Thanks, Kenny

 

I believe lift pumps start to tick as they approach the end of their life. Thats on the left side of the engine under the fuel filter. You may be able to get a broom handle on it while it's running and put the other end on your ear to use as a shade tree stethoscope.

 

The problem will be the overflow valve, I think.

 

I think I have the same noise, goes up with engine speed doesn't sound like a good noise but doesn't sound too bad either. My first inkling was that the torque converter bolts may have loosened and with your recent tranny work I would check that but in my case it developed after I replaced my overflow valve, my fuel pressure was real low before and now is right on spec I figure that is working the lift pump a lot harder and that is probably where the noise is coming from. Will it die at the least opportune time I can almost bet it will.

 

every cummins i am around i hear ticking noises,it sounds like music to me

 

Every diesel engine I own, 16 of them, seems to go though ticking phases that come and go sometimes lasting months.
I've learned to pay it no mind.